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Freelance Air Traffic Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Tucson, AZ · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Brookings, SD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Tulsa, OK · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

El Paso, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Wilmington, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Harrisburg, PA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Portland, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Rochester, MN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Macon, GA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Springfield, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Portland, ME · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Morgantown, WV · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Kenosha, WI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Overland Park, KS · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Laramie, WY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Jonesboro, AR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Lawrenceville, GA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Des Moines, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Norfolk, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...

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Freelance Air Traffic Controller information

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$23

$40

How much do freelance air traffic controller jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance air traffic controller in the United States is $23.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance air traffic controller?

Freelance air traffic controllers are professionals who provide air traffic control services on a contract or temporary basis, rather than working as permanent employees for a specific airport or government agency. They may be hired to fill short-term staffing gaps, support private airfields, or work on special projects. Freelance controllers must still meet the same rigorous training, certification, and licensing requirements as their full-time counterparts. Their work involves ensuring the safe and orderly flow of aircraft in the airspace and at airports. This role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle high-stress situations.

How does a freelance air traffic controller typically collaborate with airport staff and other controllers?

Freelance air traffic controllers often work on short-term contracts or as fill-ins at various airports, which means effective collaboration is essential. They must quickly adapt to each airport's procedures and communication protocols, working closely with permanent staff and other controllers to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities. Building strong relationships and maintaining clear communication with pilots, ground crews, and airport management is crucial for maintaining safety and efficiency. Flexibility and strong interpersonal skills help freelance controllers seamlessly integrate into new teams, even on short notice.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an air traffic controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Air Traffic Controller, you need strong situational awareness, quick decision-making, and a deep understanding of aviation regulations, typically backed by specialized training and certification from aviation authorities. Familiarity with radar systems, communication tools, and flight tracking software is essential for safe and efficient operations. Outstanding communication, calmness under pressure, and teamwork are critical soft skills for coordinating with pilots and other controllers. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safety and smooth flow of air traffic in high-stakes environments.

What is the difference between Freelance Air Traffic Controller vs Commercial Air Traffic Controller?

AspectFreelance Air Traffic Controller
CredentialsFAA certifications, radar and communication training
Work EnvironmentRemote or contract-based, often on a project basis
Employer/IndustryIndependent, consulting firms, or contract agencies

While both roles require FAA certifications and radar communication skills, Freelance Air Traffic Controllers typically work independently or on a contract basis, often remotely, whereas Commercial Air Traffic Controllers are employed full-time by airports or government agencies. The freelance role offers flexibility but may lack the stability of a full-time position.

More about Freelance Air Traffic Controller jobs

What cities are hiring for Freelance Air Traffic Controller jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Air Traffic Controller job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Air Traffic Controller jobs?

The most popular types of Air Traffic Controller jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Air Traffic Controller jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Air Traffic Controller jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Air Traffic Controller jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Air Traffic Controller jobs are:

Freelance Air Traffic Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Air Traffic Controller job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,810 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

U.S. Navy

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago

United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 379 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

ABOUT

Act as our eyes and ears in the sky, mapping coasts and ports for Navy intelligence. Gain extensive training in radar, sonar, and air traffic communications. If you feel more at home above the sea than on it, a career in aviation might be for you. Below are some examples of the vast opportunities in this field.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Commercial airlines aren’t the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways, inclement weather and mechanical issues to get personnel safely to the ground. Navy aircraft are

moving all the time, so it’s your responsibility to organize air traffic and communicate critical information to pilots. With extensive training in radar and air traffic communications, this rate is one of the easiest to translate into a civilian career post−service. As an Air Traffic Controller, you can command the skies.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful operation of a flight deck on an aircraft carrier is one of the most complex, high−stakes exercises on the planet. It’s no small task to ensure that each aircraft that leaves the flight deck performs its mission successfully and returns home safely. Navy Air Traffic Controllers are essential in directing the everyday complexities above and below the flight deck.

Their responsibilities include:

  • Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat
  • Operating radio communication systems and light signals
  • Performing aircraft tactical duties as a flight engineer, loadmaster and/or reel operator
  • Executing handling duties related to the launch and recovery of Naval aircraft
  • Interpreting data shown on radar screens to plot aircraft positions
  • Operating tactical weapons, sensors, and communications equipment
  • Working with Pilots to operate and control aircraft systems

PAY AND BENEFITS

From the day you start, you’ll receive:

  • Competitive salary
  • Potential to earn a bonus upon enlistment
  • Free health insurance
  • Free housing
  • A retirement plan
  • Paid training

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

  • Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
  • Post−9/11 GI Bill, up to 100% tuition
  • Professional credentials and certifications
  • College credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

  • U.S. citizen or equivalent
  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • 17 years of age or older

General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, whether you’ve served before, or whether you’ve never served before.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Make the world your home. You may be assigned to sea or shore squadrons on almost any continent. You will have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments—from airborne aircraft to hangars, hangar decks to flight decks and flight lines at air stations and on aircraft carriers.

PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

The role above is an Active Duty opportunity in the Navy, however there are part-time roles available in Air Support for the Navy. Serving part−time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Sailors in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.

What United States Navy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About US Navy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Social media

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